Dushanbe, Tajikistan, April 8, 2025: Delegates from Central Asia and West Asia got into the swing of things when they participated in a traditional Tajik dance in celebrations to mark the end of the OCA-OS Regional Forum in Tajikistan on Monday evening, April 7.
A picturesque setting at the foot of a natural waterfall in the mountains of Varzob provided the ideal backdrop as the National Olympic Committee of Tajikistan hosted a dinner and cultural programme for the Olympic Council of Asia and Olympic Solidarity officials and delegates from over 20 countries.
The evening which showcased spring traditions, music and shared heritage began with Zulfiqar Ahmad Gulakhmadzoda, Chairman of Tajikistan NOC’s Youth and Sports Committee welcoming the overseas guests, including OCA Deputy Director General Vinod Kumar Tiwari and Olympic Solidarity Head of Universality Edward Kensington.
The cultural showcase under the stars then began with a traditional ‘Navruz’ greeting followed by songs in multiple languages, elegant violin interludes and recitations of Tajik poetry.
Performers delivered a rich blend of cultural expressions, from beloved Tajik melodies ‘Sitora’i Man’ and ‘Toki Ba Sarat’ to international classis like ‘Adagio’. The winner of the national ‘My Beloved Homeland’ competition delivered a powerful rendition of ‘I Have Nothing’.
The highlight and most memorable moment of the evening occurred during a traditional Tajik dance when delegates from Central and West Asia joined spontaneously in a genuine display of appreciation, embracing Tajik rhythms and movements and creating a powerful image of connection through shared customs.
As night fell over the valley, this final cultural gathering stood as more than entertainment – it embodied the forum’s essence of regional solidarity through shared experience, marking a fitting conclusion to two days of youth engagement and cooperation.
